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#FlashbackFriday with the Historical Society: East Side School’s new wing completed in 1955

September 26, 2024

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

For our last image of the historic East Side School, we present this view of the old school with the new wing completed in 1955. The “baby boom” resulted in much school construction, including a new west side elementary school in 1953 and a new high school in 1959. Around 1961, the elementary schools were given new names and this building became the Washington School. Then, in 1966, the old section of the building was demolished and a new central core building was attached to the 1955 wing. Finally, around 2002, the 1955 wing was demolished in favor of a modern wing and the school, as it exists mostly today, resulted.

Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.

(3689P, Whitewater Historical Society)

Local Students Honored by SNHU

September 26, 2024

MANCHESTER, NH – Jessica Ellifritz of Delavan (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s Summer 2024 Dean’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term are named to the Dean’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

MANCHESTER, NH – Madelyn Fosen of Whitewater (53190) has been named to Southern New Hampshire University‘s (SNHU) Summer 2024 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner.

Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Army Staff Sgt. Who Lost His Life in WWII

September 26, 2024
Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode Who Lost His Life in WWII
 
Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #241 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in honor of U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode, who lost his life in World War II and whose remains have been identified and returned to Wisconsin for burial.

“Staff Sergeant Bode selflessly gave his life fighting for the freedoms of his fellow Americans and our allies abroad,” said Gov. Evers. “It is an honor to be able to help welcome him back to Wisconsin after 80 years, where he can finally be laid to rest in his hometown of Racine.”

A native of Racine, Staff Sgt. Bode was a member of the 700th Bombardment Squadron, 445th Bombardment Group, 2nd Air Division, 8th Air Force in the European Theater during World War II. On Sept. 27, 1944, Staff Sgt. Bode’s aircraft was shot down while on a bombing mission over Kassel, Germany, and a finding of death was issued by the U.S. War Department on Sept. 28, 1945. In 1951, the American Graves Registration Command recovered remains from the crash site and interred them at the Luxembourg American Cemetery in Luxembourg and the North African American Cemetery in Tunisia. Staff Sgt. Bode’s remains were positively identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency on Dec. 26, 2023.

Staff Sgt. Bode will be buried on Fri., Sept. 27, 2024, in Racine.

Discover Whitewater Series Celebrates 12th Year Success

September 25, 2024

5k First Place male and female with Patrick Singer, Common Council president

Half Marathon female winners with Patrick Singer, Common Council president

Half Marathon male winners with Patrick Singer, Common Council president [Submitted photos]

The Greater Whitewater Committee (GWC)’s 12th annual Discover Whitewater Series (DWS): Half Marathon, Half Marathons Teams, and 5k was a smashing success raising money for local charities. 

This year’s DWS brought in over 452 participants, 250 volunteers and nearly 70 sponsors. The DWS team was thrilled to welcome 450 runners from so many different states other than Wisconsin. The weather was cooler and rainy for the runners, with a temperature of 68 degrees.

Common Council President Patrick Singer arrived at the race bright and early to give the welcoming remarks and wished all of the participants a great race day. 

Congratulations to all of our runners, toughing it out even during a rainstorm! A special shout out to all of our top placing racers!

Women’s Half Marathon Winners: Jessa Victor, Rebecca Hregornik, Jenny Zwagerman 

Mens Half Marathon Winners: John Dewitt, Joe Zack, Nick Schmidt 

Half Marathon Teams Winners: Tyler Zwagerman, Jenny Zwagerman, Christina Moehn, Alex Moehn 

Women’s 5k Winners: Heidi Mane, Tracy Curtis, Sydney Rychtik

Men’s 5k Runners: Mark Elworthy, Andy Verbos, Paul Taylor

To see all race results, make sure to visit: https://runwhitewater.com/race-results/

As runners ventured through the course, they got to experience some of Whitewater’s finest features. The DWS team was proud to welcome new and returning participants alike. Thanks to all of the hard work of our amazing volunteers and sponsors, the 12th Annual DWS proved once again, to achieve its mission of bringing people together in support of a good cause. 

All proceeds will be distributed to the DWS’ four charity partners: Whitewater LEADS, Bethel House of Whitewater, UW Whitewater Foundation Athletics, and the J-Hawk’s Aquatic club. Runners and volunteers joined together after the race to celebrate the day’s accomplishments, enjoying a free beverage from bronze sponsor 841 Brewhouse. 

Congratulations to John Dewitt for setting a new record at this year’s DWS. His time was 1:07:27. Even with these weather conditions he did an amazing job. John Dewitt competed in the Olympic trials for the marathon in summer of 2023; we are so glad to have him participate in the Discover Whitewater Series. 

“I want to congratulate John Dewitt, breaking the record in these weather conditions is super impressive,” said Race Director, Dawson Miller, “We are so glad to see him come back for the fourth year in a row.”

Photo gallery courtesy of Tom Ganser

The DWS team would like to thank all who came out in support of the race. The entire community has been a part of such an amazing event that has greatly helped charities across Whitewater. 

About the DWS

The goal of the DWS is to promote the City of Whitewater and highlight its greatest features, while keeping everyone in the community active. All the proceeds from the race are donated to local non-profit partners: Bethel House (which 

provides interim housing for homeless families), Whitewater LEADS, Working for Whitewater’s Wellness (W3), and the J-Hawk Aquatic Club. The DWS partners with the city, business community, and university  to make this a tremendous event that benefits all who participate. For more information about the race visit www.runwhitewater.com.

Tom Ganser: First time seeing hydrant flushing

September 25, 2024

Tom Ganser writes, “By total chance, I happened for a first time to see this flushing of a fire hydrant on Esterly Avenue where I have lived for 33 years.  Pure fun to see.”

As was previously posted to The Banner:

The Water Utility will begin its semi-annual water main and hydrant flushing program on Monday, September 23, through Friday, September 27, 2024.

Flushing of water mains is necessary to test the hydrants to make sure adequate flow and pressure is available. It also confirms the fire hydrants and valves are operating correctly. In addition, it enhances water quality by removing sediment from the pipes in order to maintain water clarity and quality in the distribution pipes.

Occasionally, water becomes discolored after hydrant flushing. If this happens turn on an outside spigot or a cold water tap, in the lowest level of your home, for a few minutes until the water clears. If it doesn’t clear the first time, wait a few minutes and run the water again. You may want to wait until the crew has left the area and the water settles down before running your water tap.

Additionally, caution should be exercised in washing of white clothing. Discoloration of water, due to flushing, WILL stain white clothing. Therefore, you should avoid washing clothes until the water clears.

If the Water Utility crew experiences more repairs than expected throughout the week, flushing may continue into the following week. Thank you for your patience and understanding during water main and hydrant flushing.

Jim Bergner, Superintendent
Water Utility
jbergner@whitewater-wi.gov
(262) 473-0560

Walworth County Owned Property for Sale

September 25, 2024


Walworth County Treasurer Valerie Etzel announces that the sale of county-owned properties will be conducted by Wisconsin Surplus Online Auction and will take place beginning on Wednesday, September 25th, and concluding on Wednesday, October 9th, at 10:00 AM.

Please visit www.wisconsinsurplus.com for a complete listing of properties for sale and information on how to bid. Properties are located in the towns of Bloomfield, East Troy and Troy and the city of Elkhorn. Specific questions may be directed to the County Treasurer’s Office from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, 262-741-4251, email treasurer@co.walworth.wi.us, or visit the Walworth County website at www.co.walworth.wi.us.

Swim Team Hosts Triple Dual

September 25, 2024

The Whippet Girls’ Swim Team hosted Badger and Platteville/Lancaster in their first home meet of the season on Tuesday, September 24! The night was filled with lots of best times and some new races for individuals!

Whippet Swim Team

Maggie Maas put on a gutsy performance in the 200 Freestyle. She won the event against Platteville/Lancaster and pushed the Badger swimmers until the very end. Maggie’s performance was a lifetime best for her, going a time of 2:24.76! Lucy Davis has really found her niche in the 200 Freestyle and continues to knock more and more time off; she swam a stellar 2:31.30!

In the 200 IM, Grace Coleman took on the battle for the first time and crushed it! We are excited to see her improvement in this event moving forward in the season. Makayla Bazeley also swam a great race winning the event against Platteville/Lancaster; she went a time of 2:19.54.

Laken DePorter went 4/4 on the night. She dropped nearly 2 seconds in her 50 Freestyle going a 35.75, she broke the 1:30 mark in her 100 Freestyle going a time of 1:28.38, and she also improved her 50 free relay split time and 100 free relay split time!

Charlotte Hajewski continues to improve on her 500. She won the event against Platteville/Lancaster with a time of 6:26.29.

Both of our 200 Freestyle Relays had some great races. Some notable splits came from Lucy Davis who led off the relay to go a lifetime best in the 50 Free with a time of 32.93, Atreya Wilson who went a 34.57 in her 50 free split, Maya Davis who also led off to race against her sister posting a best time in the 50 free with a time of 37.64, and Caitlin Alford who continues to improve her time!

In the 100 Backstroke, Marijose Verduzco swam a close race against Platteville/Lancaster taking second and improved her time by 4 seconds!

In the 400 Freestyle Relay consisting of Makayla Bazeley, Lucy Davis, Charlotte Hajewski, and Emerson Dunham, all swimmers posted new best times for the season! Makayla led off with a 55.64, Lucy split a 1:09.63, Charlotte split a 1:09.30, and Emerson anchored with a 1:06.15.

The girls travel to Jefferson High School to compete in the EagleJay Invite on Saturday, September 28. The meet starts at 10 am. We hope to see you there!

Article and Photo Submitted by Sarah Reynolds
Whitewater High School Head Swim Coach
ReynoldsSM07@uww.edu

Come Celebrate at the Whitewater Pride Rally on Oct. 5

September 24, 2024

Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Whitewater Pride Inc.

Whitewater’s fourth annual Pride Rally promises to be the biggest and best yet. This free, family-friendly celebration takes place on Saturday, October 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Cravath Lakefront Park in downtown Whitewater.

The Pride Rally will include activities for children, adults, and even the family pets, all in support of our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors, with a focus on high school and college students. The events include music, performances, over 30 vendors, and several food trucks. Speakers include City Manager, John Weidl; UW-Whitewater Chancellor, Dr. Corey A. King; Whitewater High School’s Associate Principal, Kate McNulty; and Fair Wisconsin’s Policy and Advocacy Director, Sean O’Brien, who will discuss the state of the LGBTQ+ movement locally and nationally.

“Since 2021, Whitewater Pride has been creating a jubilant safe space for our community to truly celebrate their unique selves,” said Camden Harlan, President of Whitewater Pride Inc. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of our city, local businesses, schools, and community members. With their advocacy and agency, we have been able to fund field trips and scholarships for LGBTQ+ youth in our community, as well as provide inclusive events throughout the year where the LGBTQ+ community and allies come together and know just how loved and appreciated they are.”

Camden Harlan and Ginny Coburn at Whitewater Pride in 2023

Whitewater Pride T-shirts will be on sale at the event for $15. These T-shirts bear the Whitewater Pride logo, designed by UW-Whitewater student, Maddy Albanese. Colored fabric markers will be available to individualize the shirts on site. 

A children’s corner will include activities and story time with a selection of LGBTQ+ children’s books.

Your pets are also invited to attend and participate in the third annual Pride Pet Costume Contest. Registration will take place from 11:00-11:30 a.m. on the day of the event. For the safety of your pets and others, please make sure all pets are leashed and comfortable with crowds.

Whitewater Pride is proud to announce official sponsors of the Pride Rally who have contributed financially to help support our local LGBTQ+ community. This year’s sponsors are: The Coburn Family, Generac, Whitewater Unites Lives, TDS Telecom, Stellar Vintage, Botanica Beauty Parlour, Fort HealthCare, and Fort Community Credit Union, The Dem Party of Wisconsin, and T-Mobile of Lake Geneva.

“These community partners are not only providing financial support to the work of Whitewater Pride, but they are also standing proud with our LGBTQ+ community members and allies. This statement of support reinforces the values of our communities that all are welcomed, valued, and embraced,” Kim Simes said.

Others wishing to support Whitewater Pride can visit whitewaterpride.org to become a Sponsor, Vendor, or Donor.

Event supporters include Whitewater High School GSA, PB Poorman Pride Center, Irvin L. Young Memorial Library, City of Whitewater, Whitewater Unites Lives, The Book Teller, The Sweet Spot, UW-W CARE, and Whitewater League of Women Voters. For more information visit www.whitewaterpride.org, Instagram @whitewaterpride, or Facebook at Whitewater Pride

Obituaries

Obituary: William J. “Bill” West, 75

William J. “Bill” West, 75, of Whitewater passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Fort Memorial Hospital in Fort Atkinson. Bill was born on September 8, 1949 to John and Bessie (Sutherland) West in Fort Atkinson. He worked at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater for twelve years. Bill enjoyed watching the Packers and NASCAR. He is survived by his girlfriend, Sandy Hahn; and many friends and family. A memorial visitation will take place on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 11 AM until 1 PM at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190. Inurnment will take … Read more

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Obituary: David Harold Baker Jr., 61, of Portland, OR

David Harold Baker Jr., beloved husband, father, stepfather, son, and brother, passed away on December 16, 2024, in Portland, Oregon, at the age of 61. Born on August 10, 1963, in Beaufort, South Carolina, David was the firstborn child of David Baker Sr. and the late Betty Jean Baker (née Wickham) while his father served in the United States Marine Corps. David spent his early years in Wyoming, where the family lived until his parents divorced. In 1976, David moved to Oregon with his father, and he graduated from high school in 1982. Shortly after, he moved to Wisconsin to … Read more

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Obituary: Allen C. Hicks, 85

Allen C. Hicks, 85 of Whitewater passed away on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 at Huntington Memory Care in Janesville. Al, the oldest of seven boys, was born on July 5th, 1939, in Belvidere, Illinois to Walt and Laura (Keller) Hicks. A few years later, the family bought a dairy farm in Whitewater and became very active in the Whitewater community. There was always work to be done or something to be repaired on the farm which led to Al’s lifelong love of tinkering. He was very active in high school sports which continued on into his adult years playing in … Read more

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Obituary: Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91

Jeanette Ila Hansen, 91, Whitewater passed away on December 24, 2024 at Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center in Johnson Creek, WI, having lived independently almost all her later life. Jeanette was born on May 12, 1933 in Whitewater, WI to Alvin and Maybell (Maasz) Cox.  She married Norman Hansen on November 2, 1950 and they were married for 59 years.  Jeanette enjoyed fishing, reading, indoor gardening, collecting dolls, and cooking; and she made many beautiful items with crocheting, knitting, and sewing.  She was generous and seemed to have a good word to say about almost everyone she met. She especially loved … Read more

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Obituary: Isaac Richard Unger, 31

Isaac Richard Unger left the field on Christmas Day, and is now at peace. He was born in Whitewater, WI on April 1st, 1993 to Paul and Mary Jo (née Peiffer) Unger. Isaac was born ten days late on a silly holiday, and lived his life as such–never rushed, and with a lighthearted sense of humor. Isaac graduated from Madison East High School in 2011, and then attended UW-River Falls from 2011-2016, where he studied English and philosophy. Isaac was a sports lover, not only as a spectator, but as a participant. Isaac grew up playing soccer, basketball (Badger Sporting … Read more

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Obituary: John George Mack, 61

John George Mack passed away into eternal glory on December 24th, 2024. John was born December 1, 1963, in Fort Atkinson, WI to Ronald and Mary Alice (Hanson) Mack of Whitewater.   John was a 1982 Whitewater High School graduate. In 1983 just out of high school John started his first wood company selling wholesale through all the major gift markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and New York. At the time his clients included 8 out of the 10 retail chains and several thousand independent stores nationwide. John had so many wonderful customers and associates.   As the wholesale gift market shifted to cheaper overseas … Read more

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Obituary: Clifford Maynard Witte, 103

Clifford Maynard Witte, age 103, of Whitewater, WI completed his earthly journey on December 24, 2024 in his home surrounded by his loving family.  Clifford was born on September 13, 1921 on a farm in Mount Horeb, WI, and was the third child of Ella and Eli Witte.  Clifford served his country by joining the Navy in 1942 during WWII, and served alongside his two brothers. Later he used the GI bill to attend Palmer Chiropractic College in Davenport, IA. There he met the love of his life, Beulah (Billie) Ohrberg, and they married on Nov 7, 1946. Shortly after … Read more

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Obituary: Mary Ann Burkhardt, 79

Mary Ann Burkhardt, 79, passed away December 24, 2024, at Edgerton Hospital, surrounded by loved ones following a brief illness. Mary was born on September 14, 1945, in Chicago, IL, to Raymond and Helen (Pasternak) Burkhardt. She attended elementary school in Chicago and Good Counsel Catholic Girls High School, before her family moved to Whitewater where she graduated from WHS in 1963.  She worked at Gus’s Pizza Palace, Whitewater Products, and finally, Jones Dairy Farm until her retirement 33 years later.  She enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, boating, golf, riding her motorcycle, and playing softball for the Long Branch Saloon.  She was … Read more

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Obituary: Jean Lucile Zuill, 98

Jean Lucile Zuill, 98, of Whitewater passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Hearthstone Memory Care. Jean was born on April 20, 1926 in the Town of Lima to Howard and Florence (VanDuser) Hunt. Along with her brother Van, she grew up on their family farm in Lima. She graduated from Whitewater High School in 1944. For a short time, Jean worked at the Parker Pen Company in Janesville. She married David “Dave” Zuill on August 9, 1947 in Whitewater. Upon marriage and having their two daughters, Janet and Mary, Jean undertook the meaningful job of mother and homemaker. … Read more

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Obituary: Helen Ruth Delaney, 94

Helen Ruth Delaney, 94, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Friday, December 20, 2024. She was born in Bellwood, West Virginia on August 8, 1930, daughter of Henderson C. and Bertha J. (Skaggs) Hamby. She attended Leedwood High School in West Virginia. She attended Cornell University in New York studying economics and business. On April 8, 1978, Helen married Laurence W. Delaney in Rockton, IL. Helen retired as the Manager of a Hallmark gift shop in Greenville SC and previously managed the Stop ‘N Go in Whitewater, WI. Helen was a member … Read more

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